Feels Like Home for the Holidays
Are you looking for new traditions to add wonder, magic, and joy this holiday season? Your trail should lead you to Independence this holiday season. You and your family can experience many of the delightful events and activities throughout the community.
Light up the town!
The Holiday season kicks off on November 18th with plenty to see and do. The Independence Square and Tree lighting begins at 6 PM on the historic square. Enjoy the sights and sounds of singers and dancers as we light up the town for the holiday season.
The Square and Tree Lighting is also your chance to spend one-on-one time with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Santa’s Village at the Independence Uptown Market. From 6:30-8 PM, enjoy hot chocolate and cookies as you share your Christmas list with the Big Man.
Kids of all ages are invited to craft a one-of-a-kind ornament that will be featured on the Mayor’s Christmas Tree for the Living Windows.
For added holiday nostalgia, treat yourself to a sleigh ride from Pioneer Trails Adventure. The rides are $5 per person.
And for those with a bit more holiday shopping to get in, the Best Little Arts and Craft Show returns to the Roger T. Sermon Center. With over 100 booths, you’re sure to find a special something for that special someone. All four floors will be open 10 AM-7 PM on November 18th and 10 AM-6 PM on November 19th. Admission and parking are free too!
A holiday movie come to life!
Magic and wonder are sure to be felt, seen, and heard at this year’s Living Windows, Friday, December 2, from 6-8 PM. Take this unique opportunity to enjoy some of your favorite Holiday movies and music in shop windows around the historic Independence Square!
The 19th Annual Winter Solstice Torch-Lit Hike is a great option for those outdoor enthusiasts. On Wednesday, December 7, from 5-7 PM, we invite you to enjoy the changing of the seasons as you walk through the beauty of George Owens Nature Park. Feel the warmth from the campfire as you celebrate the winter solstice. Ice sculptures throughout the park are sure to delight community members of all ages.
The Winter Trail at George Owens Nature Park will have you in the spirit of giving. December 8th, 2022, through February 1st, 2023, showcases wooden trees decorated by the community for the community. Each tree was decorated to support Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity. You can learn more about the decorated wooden trees here.
Step back in time and enjoy the holidays past!
Beauty and elegance will delight your eyes as the Bingham-Waggoner Estate and Vaile Mansion pull out all of the stops with decorations for the holiday season. You can find more information here about touring details and the spectacular decorations this year.
Reminisce with Father Christmas at the National Frontiers Trails Museum on December 8th, from 6-7:30 PM. Your children are sure to have quality time sharing their list as you take a photo and create a unique ornament. We know Father Christmas is limited in his time away from the workshop, so don’t miss out on registering for this fun new holiday experience. Registration opens on November 7 and will be taken on a first come, first served basis. Call 816-325-7575 to register for this free event. Please specify the number of children signing up for this experience.
Make Independence part of your family traditions for the holidays with great food, great history, and A Great American Story!